Michael’s appointment reflects GSA’s strategic growth plans for the U.S., having expanded to encompass 46 assets across 23 states in less than two years. As Asset Management Director, Michael will be responsible for driving rehabilitation, reconfiguration, and redevelopment activity across the US portfolio, and work closely with colleagues, joint venture partners, and with GSA’s global operating partner Yugo, to identify value add initiatives for pipeline transactions to support underwriting.

GSA has a multi-million-dollar programmatic capital investment strategy for 2023 in the U.S. that includes the refurbishment of 2,500 beds, investment in clubhouse and amenity space and targeted ESG projects to improve the environmental performance of the portfolio, enhancing students’ experience and driving asset value. 

Equipped with over 12 years of experience, Michael brings an extensive background and deep knowledge of the student housing sector. His expertise covers real estate finance, asset management and operations, and includes debt and institutional equity investment, underwriting, due diligence, market research, capital markets and wider transactional experience.

Commenting on the appointment, James Hunt, Global Head of Real Estate, said:

“Michael is a fantastic addition to the GSA team with an outstanding track record in student housing asset management. I am confident that he will play a key part in optimizing our U.S. portfolio and driving investor returns. His appointment further demonstrates GSA’s ability to attract the very best talent in the industry and I look forward to working alongside Michael as we continue to develop our market-leading position”.  

Michael Neely, Asset Management Director, Global Student Accommodation, said:

“I’m delighted to have joined GSA and look forward to contributing to its continued success and growth. GSA has proved itself to a be leader in the student housing sector and it is with great pleasure that I take on this role to add value to our U.S. portfolio and drive further growth opportunities for the Company”.

Michael joins GSA from global real estate development and investment management firm CA Ventures where he was Director of Investments and Asset Management. Prior to that, Michael held various leadership roles with Mapletree Investments, the real estate arm of the Singaporean sovereign wealth fund Temasek, and Cardinal Group Investments. He holds a MSc in Real Estate Finance and Construction Management from the University of Denver, and a BSc in Business Administration and Real Estate Finance from Colorado State University.